The India Culture Lab International Fellowship provided scholars (undergraduate/postgraduate) studying contemporary Indian issues in universities outside India a two-month long paid Fellowship every summer in Mumbai. The aim was for the fellows to cross-pollinate their ideas in a different geography and with people beyond academia and think from an interdisciplinary approach. During their time at the Lab, the selected fellows met and learned from experts working on contemporary India and also got an opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience.
This fellowship was a two-month full time opportunity. It was open in its scope and provided room for the fellow to continue research on a project of their interest with support and learnings from India Culture Lab. The Lab’s thematic focus was on urban-rural narratives, histories of India, digital India, educational alternatives, environment futures, and identity politics. We encouraged students from any discipline who are working on any of these themes or at the intersection of these themes to apply. Selected fellows received a stipend and access to the Lab’s network and resources. The selected fellows arranged for their own travel to Mumbai and their own accommodation while in the city.
How to Apply
To be eligible, candidates must have had an active affiliation to an academic institution in an undergraduate, postgraduate or PhD programme outside India.
Our 2020 International Fellows were Aroh Akunth and Avani T Vierra.
What is the Screening and Selection Process?
After the candidate cleared the first level of selection, they discussed their application and schedule through three pre-arrival calls with the India Culture Lab team. These pre-arrival calls established the framework for the project that the scholar would like to focus on while at the Lab. Candidates were informed of the outcome of their application by the month of February.
What is the fellowship period?
The fellowship period was June-July / July-August depending on the candidate’s academic calendar. The fellows worked full-time (40 hours per week), with the Godrej India Culture Lab team in Vikhroli, Mumbai.
What is the stipend?
India Culture Lab provided a monthly stipend of Rs. 25,000 for their time spent at the Lab. Candidates were encouraged to apply for funding for travel and accommodation through their university.
